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JOYous CHAI LIGHTS, December 2009, Kislev, Tevet 5770

Dear Chevra / community,

Please make daily healing prayers for soul and body, Mi-Sheberach, for my older, newly widowed sister, ORIEL BAT LEBA, and include Oriel, in your prayer circles. Thank you.(Forgive me if lately my responses to you have been delayed.)
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Chanukah Same'ach. Lots of CHANUKAH events in gold. See very end of this JOYous CHAI LIGHTS for my art Chanukah greeting to YOU, and also to view my ceramic MENORAH below. Enjoy my digital Chanukiyah above, and my "Shamash" brush painting below, which I painted following my meditation on the holy Temple. Enjoy photo I took of Reb Shlomo, zt'l, in front of a menorah saved from Poland.

If you have any ideas how to keep Joyous Chai Lights from losing ALL its formatting and photos and art from month to month, when I copy and paste, PLEASE do let me know. Updated info is always added every day. If you see errors, do let me know. Thanks. ~Every day, JOYous CHAI LIGHTS is UPDATED. New listings found throughout site.To review last month: http://www.joyous-chai-lights-november2009.blogspot.com/ or see My Profile above for archives.)
~Friends, if you are driving to night time LA events from Valley, please contact me for car pooling.
~For NEW READERS - Welcome, please read long Greeting INTRODUCTIONletter at end. ENJOY

Happy Chanukah blesSings for bright light to surround you and fill you.Joy Krauthammer

"Ivdu Et HaShem B'Simcha" Psalm 100:2Serve G*D in Joy

"Miriam the Prophetess, Aaron's sister, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women went out after her with timbrels & dances." Exodus 15:20(For the following month, please change the new blog name link from Dec. to January 2010.

FROM MY FAMILY TO YOURS, CHANUKAH SAMEACH

CHANUKAH LIGHTS

"Each of us, according to Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook, is a living Chanukah candle capable of spreading our own inner light in the world and living a story of heroism by doing so. Like that little jar of oil which burned longer than anyone thought reasonable, we can live more brightly than we often imagine, even under the most difficult of circumstances." What values do you hold that could be lived more fully and inspire those around you? - CLAL / inclusive.
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"...simple spiritual truth. A small amount of love/light/gratitude can dispel great darkness. The miracle of Chanukah (which is fast approaching) and the practice of Gratitude Day (today) is one and the same. Find a small jar of uncontaminated, pure love and simple gratitude to bring to your heart and mind. We can begin where we are. Something small, something obvious. A smile, a memory, this body are all available for gratitude practice. Don't wait. A little bit of light, a little bit of gratitude, goes a long way." - R. David Ingber (Romemu)
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"According to the Hebrew calendar, the current year is 5770, the 770th year in the sixth millennium.
770 is the gematria (the numerical equivalent) of the word “foratzto” – peh (80), resh (200), tzaddik (90), tov (400).
Following the axiom that everything we encounter is meant to serve us with a personal lesson, and that every detail in Torah offers us a relevant message – the focus of this year is to place our energies on “foratzto” – to spreadout light everywhere we go, to the west, to the east, to the north and to the south." - from Parsha Veyeitzi and Chabad's R. Simon Jacobson (A Meaningful Life)
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"Don't Postpone Joy", the light of your soul. Foratzto, spread out and share your joy, your inner core, your soul. Be a SHAMASH and spread YOUR light, which can not diminish when sharing, and only increase! A little bit of light can dispell a whole lot of darkness. - Joy Krauthammer (Joyous Chai Lights)
~ ~JUDITH, part of the Chanukah story: http://jwa.org/discover/throughtheyear/december/judith/index.html

CONTENTS:CHANUKAH LIGHTS above. Exceptional Joyous Chai LightsHAPPENINGS (i.e. spiritual retreats, festivals, news,ARTS, and books are mostly at beginning of this list and some are at the end, and ongoing Chai Lights events (i.e. SHULS, MINYANS, museums, classes) are mostly in the middle, then, HOLY GATHERINGS, ARTS LA, andOUTSIDE LA, and my PERSONAL NOTE near end of JOYous CHAI LIGHTS to learn of my mamash gevaldt /truly glorious RABBIS and other teachers or teachings that I love, as well as videos, reviews, musings, etc. More PRESS at end.Introduction letter now last.

AVIVABELL, ARTIST OF LIGHT in all seasons. Give the gift of Art this Chanukah! AvivaBell ART PHOTOGRAPHS can be framed or turned into special presents. Browse through this selection of Travel/Art Photography, and purchase one matted and framed for a unique holiday gift. Use the coupon code ABHOLIDAY for a 20% discount through Dec. 18th.
click link: http://avivabell.zenfolio.com/p738627478Hmm, whose talented photographer daughter could this be? I love Aviva's photos; hope you enjoy them too.
~ ~ ~ Read CD REVIEWS at very END of site: (because they take up much space):"HOLY GROUND", Craig Taubman's divine newest offering,
and "SHLOMO CARLEBACH - Songs of Peace."
and as soon as I write them, also DANCING IN THE GLORY by Nava Tehila, and STREAMS in the DESERT by Aviva Rosenbloom.

I am thrilled that on the day of Shlomo's 15th yahrtzeit, "KOL CHEVRE" / Voice of the Chevre, has been published (and received from Jerusalem in my LA home. ) I love reading what the Chevre shares about their spiritual lives. My story about Shlomo, and photographs of Reb Aryeh Hirschfield, z'l, have been published. Annual journal can be ordered from Emuna Witt. $20.emunawitt14@yahoo.com or emuna.witt@rebshlomo.org
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Documentary, "FOUR SEASONS LODGE", was filmed in Ida Lewis' parents' bungalow colony in the Catskill Mts. 3 summers ago. "Though they only have 2 second spots here and there, the film has great merit demonstrating a positive and up-beat WW 2 survivor community that is quickly fading from sight."
Director, Andrew Jacobs, will be at select screenings in LA on Dec 11th - 13th.

"Beautifully photographed by a team of cinematographers including Albert Maysles (Gimme Shelter, Grey Gardens) and Justin Schein (No Impact Man), this unexpectedly funny film confronts moving topics such as aging, loss and the legacy of the Holocaust, capturing the Lodgers' intoxicating passion for life, as the fate of their colony hangs in the balance.
From the darkness of Hitler's Europe to the lush mountains of New York's Catskills, Four Seasons Lodge follows a community of Holocaust survivors who come together each summer at their beloved bungalow colony to dance, cook, fight and flirt - and celebrate their survival."
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YUVAL RON, Music as a Bridge, Between Jews and Sufis. Tues, Dec. 15, 7:30 pm. # 2 of 6 parts, each month. A musical presentation on the inner workings of the ecstatic Hassidic music & dance, and the Sufi practice of moving prayer-meditation (Whirling).Valley Beth Shalom, 818 788-6000.
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NEW LimmudLA in South Bay,Thursday, Dec. 17th, 7:30 - 9:30 PM. Jewish learning and get a taste of what to expect at the LimmudLA Annual Conference 2010. RSVP to taste@limmudla.org and we will provide details, address and directions.
Presenters include: David Berger, Cantor of Congregation Tikvat Jacob in Manhattan BeachBonnie Leopold, Chaplain (AJR graduate) and Morei Derekh Spiritual Guide Mussar: A Spiritual Approach to Daily Life, John Fishel, President of the LA Jewish Federation, Human Rights in the Congo, Esther Macner, Attorney and Member of Agunah Task Force of Jewish Orthodox Alliance. Abby Yasgur, Librarian and Former Director of the Jewish Community Library of Los Angeles -Jews and Woodstock.

An afternoon of Sacred meditative music, Sat, Dec. 26, 4 pm, "Eyt Ratzon". Mystical teachings and Havdalah ritual with Rabbi T'mimah Ickovits and Yuval Ron. How one may transcend the limits of reality and reach Unity (Achdut), and why certain music and certain movements are used in the mystical practice, both in the Hasidic-Jewish tradition and in the Islamic-Sufi path.

Please join us for an introspective performance on the Oud (Middle Eastern Lute, originating from Biblical times and according to legend was invented by Lamech - the 6h grandson of Adam), weaved with Kabalistic teaching for the special time of Shabbat afternoon. Event will commence with Seudat Shlishi (Shabbat's third light meal) - Kiddish and snacks. Location: Private home in Santa Monica, CA For Reservations,: mail: RebbeT@kabbalahtmimah.org or Tel: 310-450-8808. Suggested donation after Havdalah: $20
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SAVE DATE --WAGNER WOMEN'S RETREAT
Call Judy Uhrmann at AJU 310-476-9777 for complete info and to register for Jan. 8-10 Wagner Women's Shabbaton Retreat at Brandeis Bardin, AJU's Simi Valley country site in natural wonder.
Wonderful annual Shabbaton weekend away with teachers, music, workshops. I'll be there on percussion accompanying Rabbi Toba August and Cantor Cindy Paley, and teach some Torah. This year the retreat is early, right after New Years, so hurry and register. Bring your sisters, mom, aunt, daughters, grandmothers and FRIENDS!
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Interfaith Philanthropic and Spiritual Pilgrimage to the Holy Land for Peace, Healing and Prayer, March 21- April 2, 2010. See details in OUTSIDE LA.
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R. WAYNE DOSICK on web radio. See under Joy's Personal Notes.
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CHILDREN OF EDEN, ends Dec. 6. "From Stephen Schwartz (“Godspell” and “Pippin”) and John Caird of “Les Misérables” comes a joyous and inspirational musical about parents, children and faith... and centuries of unresolved family business!

Freely based on the story of Genesis, “Children Of Eden” is a frank, heartfelt and often humorous examination of the age-old conflict between parents and children. Adam, Eve, Noah and the “Father” who created them deal with the headstrong, cataclysmic actions of their respective children. The show delivers a bittersweet but inspiring message: that 'the hardest part of love... is letting go.' " (from website.)
Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. 3050 Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley (118 Freeway to Simi Valley, exit at Sycamore Drive, head south to Los Angeles Ave., turn left and go a few blocks. the Simi Valley Cultural Center is at the corner of Church St. and Los Angeles Ave. http://www.simi-arts.org/ / 805 583-7905

This is an absolutely fantastic live 3 hour musical (in a small 209 seat theatre), one of best I have seen, filled with good costumes and sound, great talent with dozens of actors, singers (2 dozen songs where the words are clearly understood) and musicians with gospel at end! Good choreograpy, lighting. Loved the creative props, especially animals. What fun. Check out the drummer! Children of Eden was a tear jerker, heart breaker, filled with hope, love, truth, lies, pain. The fast drive into Simi is filled with the greatest mountain rocky range. I've never been to this gothic style theatre before (used to be a synagogue) and I will go again.
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METIVTA CHANUKAH celebration, Dec. 6, 9:30 am - 4:30 pm. Workshop includes: special color meditation, studying the blessings of Chanukah and other mystical texsts according to David El-Harar, a North African mystical Rabbi (whom I used to study with years ago) and others, learn how to make an oil chanukiah, discover how to prepare lunch together in a sacrad manner, and set up our table as an altar. fee for lunch. RSVP to gilla29@msn.com
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NESHAMA CARLEBACH, Dec. 13th, sponsored by Makom Ohr Shalom, is performing a new show in time for Chanukah, accompanied by her band and the members of the Green Pastures Baptist Church Choir, led by Reverend Roger Hambrick. At The Writers' Guild Theater, 135 S. Doheny Drive, Beverly Hills, 90211. purchase tix online at http://www.makom.org/ or call Naomi Drangle, 818-894-1754.
What a wonderful treat to have Reb Shlomo's, zt'l, gifted singer daughter here on the west coast.

End of Hanukah Sephardic Celebration, a concert of traditional Sephardic and Hanukah music, highlighted by related background, legends and folk tales, and followed by refreshments and festivities. With Judith Cohen, performer and scholar, and Dolores Sloan, author. Co-sponsored by Sephardic Singles Havurah. Enjoy the art gallery while there. http://www.circlesocal.org/200.html
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JEWISH WOMEN's THEATRE offers salon theatre, conversation & fabulous desserts.
Learn about the 2010 2nd season of At-Homes: A Salon Theatre Series and the New Play Series at the American Jewish University. Last year's salon sold out. Three evenings of Salon theatre at homes near you.
Subscribe: info@Jewishwomenstheatre.org call 310.592.7749 http://www.jewishwomenstheatre.org/I enjoyed performing in both years' JWT, and it was wonderful and fun filled with many friends from many communities. I'm excited about the Women Rabbis Speak project. JWT is at Lev Eisha Dec. 5 because Rabbi August is part of the Project.
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Here's a really important listing to share with your family and community.
How about including it in your shul's newletter: Community Action Alert, Ways You Can Help or Get Help in the face of the Economic Crisis, compiled by Ann Sturman 818 464-2853. http://www.jewishla.org/evites/14479.htm
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*GOLDSTAR*: To sign up for FREE info on half-price ARTS tickets for events, theatre, music, etc. write:http://www.goldstar.com/?p=f563067ff27
I used this for Cirque du Soleil and it worked great.

(Other small LA minyans can be found on web: National Havurah Committee)

We in LA are mamash / truly blessed with our minyanim.

"And I have loved you with an eternal love; therefore I have extended loving-kindness to you. I shall yet rebuild you and you shall be rebuilt, O Maiden of Israel; you will yet adorn yourself with drums and go forth in the round-dance of the joyful." (Jeremiah 31:2,3)
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LEV EISHA (Heart of a Woman) monthly Shabbat service, Sat. DEC. 5, 9:30 A.M. The women literally "look forward to" these Shabbats and drive in from Palm Spring, Orange County, etc. Come and stay for Kiddish, blesSings, schmoozing, feasting and joy. LEV EISHA meets at new location through June 2010 in the beautiful sanctuary at Vista Del Mar with lots of parking. 3200 Motor Ave, LA. 90034. Immediately north of National and the 10 Freeway. There is a map on the website. The new grounds are filled with trees, including magnolias; an oasis in the city. http://www.leveisha.org/archive/latest.htmhttp://www.leveisha.org/ and/or read ads in the LA Jewish Journal paper edition.

LEV EISHA is where I love to be. My heart and soul soar davenen at Lev Eisha.
Come say hi. We are:

Gratitude and yasher koach to the whole team and congregation that makes this an awesome ambience for experiential expansive prayer celebration where our inner and outer voices are heard. I feel the energy circulating, given and received, at Lev Eisha and for a musician, this is mamash important.

* an exciting, innovative Shabbat service that offers a warm welcoming environment for women seeking to connect with their Judaism. Men are welcome.

* a joyous, spiritual sanctuary for women of all ages and affiliations to come together in enthusiasm, heart, energy & intellect: in song, praise, prayer, study, dance, meditation and spiritual growth.

* The first Saturday /Shabbat of every month your other rabbis know where you are! Join us and play timbrel in praise for the Source of All BlesSings.

NESHAMA CARLEBACH performs in concert sponsored by MOS in LA, Dec. 13th at the Writer's Guild in Beverly Hills. See details under Happenings.

5619 Lindley @ Burbank, NW corner in host church, Tarzana. Easy free parking. Shabbat dinners, Havdalahs, Havurahs, healing services. The original Jewish meditation shul.
Dana and Makom members greet all the people at the door and it feels good to be welcomed. When I'm there (and all shuls) early, I, too, greet Shabbat guests and introduce them to each other.
Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l, always greeted each congregant at the door. He asked, "How can I be most like Hashem? To make others comfortable, making places for them."

As a member for two decades of this 40 year old shul, you may find me there with my timbrel in hand, or Tibetan singing bowls, and with an open heart, dancing in the garden. Blessed, B'nai Horin was my very first Renwal Shul. Reb David Zeller, z'l and Yael Taubman from Jerusalem directed me here. This is where I first met Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi.
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NEW There's a group photo of a Simchat Chochmah celebration with Leah Gila in the Ahavat Torah newsletter, Dec. 10.

Held at the Village Glen Lutheran Church, 343 Church Lane, LA, 90049, 6 blocks south of Sunset, north of Montana, just west of the 405 Freeway. Brentwood, LA. Park in the South parking lot or on the streets.

I love it that member Sherry loans me her timbrel when I show up. I love attending the participatory early teachings in the intimate room. I love receiving Torah aliyahs. I love feeling winged angels flying high from the sweet sounds.

This is a social-action community, and they warmly greet you at the door, and offer Torah honors which feel really good. They offer important evening classes. http://www.ahavattorahcongregation.org/ Julie creates the artistic site.

N'SHAMA MINYAN. - Rabbi Nina Bieber Feinstein & Cindy Paley Aboody - cantorial soloist and guitarist, Joy Krauthammer - world music percussionist, and guest musicians & soloists. Service in the artistic stained glass Lopaty Chapel, prayer, song, dance (led by Susan Gilboa North), spirit, study. Sisterhood minyan led by and for women and all are invited. Women who have never held Torah are invited to hold the Torah. Check the VBS website or call the shul to confirm dates & time for the next Women's Shabbat service. (Not always Sat. AM, some Rosh Chodeshes and holidays) www.vbs.org/

How wonderful to participate in a Rosh Chodesh / New Moon women's gathering.
Join us. Meets at Valley Beth Shalom, 15739 Ventura Blvd., Encino, 91436. (818) 788-6000 or Susan: (818) 343-3078
~NEW (I had a wonderful 7 pm Wed. night College of Jewish Studies class with Rabbi Ed Feinstein. Different teachers each week.)
While at VBS, check out all their daily many varied fantastic spiritual offerings with many wonderful rabbis and cantors.

A dozen years ago I went to the World Sacred Music Festival in Fez, and explored the Jewish medinas and danced with the Sufi, Berbers, Blue men and gnawa musicians through the night, especially in the Sahara where I journeyed with my rented camel. My musical simcha was filmed and a video is available. (I brought back a suitcase of timbrels & memories.)
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It is a gift that Metivta Valley members like Gilla Nissan and the Glasers and Morgensterns offer their homes for spiritual Services. Founded by Rabbi Jonathan Omer-Man. On occassion I love serving as their percussionist. RSVP to Gilla at gilla@metivta.org or call (818) 990-7942.Metivta@metivta.org (818) 654-9293. http://www.metivta.org/
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I truly appreciate this intimate meaningful service which has everyone reflect on their soul, light and darkness. When I don't bring my timbrel the pianist loans me hers. I wish we had more Shabbats each month so I can davven everywhere.
Beit Tshuvah meets regularly at 8831 Venice Blvd. LA.http://www.beittshuvahla.org/ 310 204-5200 This organization collects for their thrift store.
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ONE SHABBAT MORNING (OSM) with Craig Taubman & wonderful musicians at Adat Ari El, 12020 Burbank Blvd., Valley Village. Sat., Feb. 6, 2010, April 17. Call or google to confirm date of musical 10 am service with 9 am guest shiur. I love this service and the special themes. This is one of the minyans (like Lev Eisha) which attract other shul congregants from all over the greater LA area.

The congregants are given colorful egg shakers to use to enable greater musical participation. I love it when percussionist Jeff loans me his dumbek.

Check out Craig's other Shabbats at Sinai Temple. (and his web site for terrific Jewish music.)
Craig's newest CD is HOLY GROUND and it is the best. I love it. google to purchase. http://www.craignco.com/
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HAPPY MINYAN meets regularly for all Jewish observances and classes in the 'Hood'. We founded this Orthodox minyan when our beloved Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt"l died 15 years ago. The chevre continues to meet and learn in Shlomo's light. It was the greatest blesSing in the universe for me to be Shlomo's percussionist and personal chauffeur.

NEW Temple Israel's SIMPLY SHABBAT service with Cantor Danny Maseng is wonderful.
Check their website for the upcoming couple dates. Dec. 12,* 9:15 am involved lay lead Torah study with bagels, then 10 am service filled with singing, just like on Masengs CD, SOUL ON FIRE, which I love. *(but I'll be at Ahavat Torah this Shabbat.) There was NO Torah scroll being read during service when I went.
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Wonderful musicians and friends from all Renewal chevre including Sarah's Tent. RSVP and advise what potluck vegetable, salad, fish or dessert you will share. Parking permits needed at Owen's home, so come by first to get permit. What a mamash holy gift to us that our blessed friends open their doors for Shabbat to create sacred space for us all. Filled with prayer movement, poetry and music. It feels so good to be at Open Door. If you are going from North Valley, please call me and we'll travel together.

RSVP. RevShayna@roadrunner.com 310-650-8808. Both Linda and Shayna serve as Spiritual Directors, and may be hired, along with other divine LA Jewish women for this holy work.
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REMO Music Center is offering the best! KIDS free drum circles monthly on first SUNDAYS, from 11 - 11:45 AM. Check first before going. http://www.remo.com/

Adult drumming every week night. Check web for amazing activities. Truly one of the greatest gifts to receive in LA from REMO. Drums provided at every event and circle. Hundreds of drummers of all levels at REMO's drum circle and friends shlep from LA to the Valley. Other musicians invited. 818 982-0461, 7308 Coldwater Canyon, North Hollywood.
(hint: you want to de-stress: DRUM.)
Say hi to facilitators Mike & Jerry from Joy. REMO's Women's Drum Day coming. Spring DATE TBA.
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SIMCHAT CHOCHMAH ~ Joy of Wisdom is the spiritual journey and ritual celebration on turning at least 60 years. Continue to consciously envision your dreams, transform age-ing beliefs into blesSings, and strive toward attaining greater spiritual heights. How do we face our 'next' era, and then mortality, and redefine values in our lives in desiring to meet our highest potential, and leave our legacy? Become a "wisdom keeper" in a Jewish Eldering Baby-Boomer rite of passage ceremony.

Both Joy and AriellaShira were students of Savina Teubal, z'l (# 1creator of the Simchat Chochmah - Joy of Wisdom ritual), and have studied with Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi's Spritual Eldering Project / Aleph Sage-ing Project, as well as with Marcia Cohn Spiegel, # 2 Simchat Chochmah. Many Wonderful Women With Wisdom joined us at Sarah's Tent, LimmudLA, Wagner Women Retreat, Jewish Federation, Aleph's KALLAH, Makom Ohr Shalom, and AJU workshops and are ready for part II. If you've had part I, let's prepare for part 2.
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Going to Jerusalem? The ultimate Jerusalem e-calendar of events is published by Rabbi Yaacov Fogelman. Subscribe at: top@actcom.co.il HI from Joy in LA.
~ ~ ~NEW
Read Hadassah Magazine December 2009. A terrific article by Rahel Musleah on the arts, "Timeless and Fresh Rituals."
Article is about a show "Reinventing Ritual: Contemporary Art and Design for Jewish Life", in NY at the Jewish Museum through Feb. 7, http://www.thejewishmuseum.org/ and then in SF at The Contemporary Jewish Museum from April 22-Sept. 28, 2010. http://www.thecjm.org/ . I'm sad that I just visited those two cities without the shows.
~ ~ ~ NEW TRIPINTERFAITH Philanthropic and Spiritual Pilgrimage to the Holy Land for Peace, Healing and Prayer, March 21- April 2, 2010.
Celebrate an interfaith Shabbat and Passover Seder with story telling and song in Jerusalem. Visit sacred sites in the Holy Land. Gain deeper understanding of the Abrahamic connections between Judaism, Christianity and Islam with people working for peace in the Holy Land.
Experience a new educational paradigm in Israel for healing and peace that Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi calls "The greatest hope for peace-shalom, salaam" that teaches Jewish and Arab children to become "agents of reconciliation". Dine at the homes of Jewish and Arab families who are transforming polarized communities in Israel.

Meet inspiring artists and activists who envision a world based on respect and cooperation. Meditate and contemplate in natural surroundings from ancient times. Learn from respected teachers. Lunch at the home of a Bedouin Sheikh, leader of 40,000 Bedouins in the Galilee.
Co-lead by Jewish Renewal national Aleph leaders, Rabbis Nadya and Victor Gross, and LA's Shepha Schneirsohn Vainstein, co-founder of Salaam Shalom Educational Foundation, and peacemaker Imam Jihad Turk.
For more information contact shephav@earthlink.net
We are blessed to have devoted Renewal people in greater LA involved with Interfaith peace healing.
Shepha was interviewed about her peace work in this Tribe magazine link http://www.jewishjournal.com/tribe/article/peace_in_the_middle_east_20091130/

Every other summer I go to Ruach HaAretz, directed by the Grosses, whom I know for three decades, and it is the best run spiritual retreat. - Joy
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RUTH FOGELMAN's newest book of poetry and photographs is: "Cradled in God's Arms ."
“…much of the poetry in this collection deals with Ms. Fogelman’s moving descriptions of the Old City of Jerusalem, of which she is a resident - its sights, smells, people, flowers, its special joining of earth and heaven…. Ruth’s work makes an immediate direct connection to the soul and heart of her readers, ties their hearts to the stones of Jerusalem along with hers. Her poetry is… eminently readable and not just for literary specialists. It can be read by and touch anyone…."
- Prof. Susan Handelman, Bar Ilan University . Co-Editor, Torah of the Mothers: Contemporary Jewish Women Read Classical Jewish Texts, and Wisdom From All My Teachers.

I have been reading Ruth's poetry for years, and have her photos of the Old City on my eastern wall serving as mizrachis. Ruth's writings from the Jewish Quarter are for me an umbilical cord through the heart and soul to holy Jerusalem; My neshama / soul deeply connects. She is my drumming, purple loving, soul sister. Ruth taught me how to tie my tichels / head scarves. - JOY

This Afterward is extremely touching, sharing with us the prior year before Reb David's death. It is concerned especially with chaplaincy and being with the sick.
Reb Zeller was my very first beloved Rebbe and it means so much to me to read the new words about my rebbe. Please open all the links on the website and listen to Reb Zeller speak and sing in angelic voice. It was the biggest blesSing to have Reb Zeller in our lives. Reb Zeller was my passport into Jewish Renewal. Photos in Oct.
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Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) produced a one-hour documentary "A Sacred Duty: Applying Jewish Values to Help Heal the World," which argues that the application of Jewish values is essential to respond to global warming and other environmental threats and to help shift our imperiled planet to a sustainable path. "A Sacred Duty" http://www.asacredduty.com/ Complimentary copies of DVDs. Many articles at www.JewishVeg.com/schwartz. LA has local JVNA chapters and meetings.
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TORAH TEACHERS directory, Local & International mostly. We have so many DIVINE JEWISH TEACHERS who are accessible to us. Write them to receive their weekly mails, or tune in their live webcasts. Who are your favorites?

My orthodox chareidi rebbe, YOSEF Ben SHLOMO HAKOHEN, sends out his Hazon - Our Universal Vision Torah teachings. Ask me for his e-address or click the link. For years I study with this Jerusalem based teacher and continue to be deeply inspired and supported in my spiritual growth by chesed-filled Reb Yosef. www.shemayisrael.com/publicat/hazon
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I love receiving the teachings from MIRIAM (AKA Mindy) RIBNER. Write to Miriam and ask for her deep holiday teachings. Mindy is a disciple of Reb Shlomo, z'l, and she has been journeying around the world sharing her Kabbalistic meditations and counsel. http://www.kabbalahoftheheart.com/ For info call 646-382-4696 or email Miriam@kabbalahoftheheart.com
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SPIRITTALK LIVE! Journeys into Mind, Heart, and Soul. Weekly Internet radio program, hosted by Rabbi Dr. Wayne Dosick (Renewal rabbi, Reb Shlomo disciple) on HealthyLife.net Radio every Wed. 11 am Pacific, 1 pm Central, 2 pm Eastern. SPIRITTALK LIVE! is a worldwide conversation for exploring the great questions of existence, for joining in the quest to find meaning and worth in life, through intellectual inquiry and sacred spirit.
o listen: Go to HealthyLife.net on the Internet. PC users choose:
“Listen Live”, Mac users: Choose “For Mac Users” from the left column, and follow instructions. To call into the show and join in the conversation, 1-800 555-5453. Each show archived by Thursday evening for later listening. Go to HealthyLife.net, and choose “Archives.”
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I just discovered through the internet,RABBI YITZCHAK SCHWARTZ, in Jerusalem. He kindly sent me "Jewish Healing" information that I needed asap for my own work with another. It is always wonderful and appreciated when a stranger responds when you reach out looking for assistance. yitzchakSchwartz@msn.com. , http://www.paradiseprinciple.com/
Brooklyn computer phone on Jerusalem, Israel time; 1 646 358-4434

Founder of Paradise Principle Institute ™, Sefirotic Alignment Therapy ™, and co-author of Gilgulei Yisrael,
R. Yitzchak's area of expertise is the study of Kabbalah. He has been immersed in learning for up to 20 hours a day learning for most of the last 20 years with Jerusalem's leading Kabbalists. For the last 10 years Rabbi Schwartz has been researching and developing new techniques to help many young people grow with his skills as a counselor. He attained a BSC at New Mexico State University.
Rabbi Schwartz' passion is being a "bridge person." Bridging Torah to the world. He travels to the states, giving him an opportunity to present Kabbalistic-based techniques for self-actualization. He has taught at LA's Happy Minyan.
Watch the U tubes on his web site for videos in Maui, one of my favorite islands.
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Use this link to connect to video teachings from Rabbi David Ingber, Romemu, NY.
I have greatly enjoyed learning with R. Ingber at Elat Chayyim and LimmudLA and loved being at his NY Romemu Shabbat service with him. "Be your note!", he said. Sounds a little like Reb Zuscha. http://www.romemu.org/
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Rabbi Arthur Segal invites you to write to him at: RabbiASegal@aol.com to subscribe at no fee to his on line Torah and Talmud teachings, filled with a compilation of clearly written material from many sources from basic to Zohar. He does mitzvot taking Torah out to the people where he lives.
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Write to Rabbi Sholom Brodt to receive his weekly teaching and see their video class schedules. Invite him to your community. "To gather the holy sparks, is a task that we are all engaged in. Each time you drink some water or eat some food, if you do this in a holy way and then use the energy of the food and drink to do good deeds, to study Torah, to pray and to do acts of loving kindness, you are gathering and elevating the holy sparks that were 'trapped' or contained in the food and drink."

"The four corners of the Tallis teach us that it is our responsibility to reach out to all four corners of the world - whichever direction we are walking in, wherever we may be at the moment, there are sparks of holiness that are waiting to be gathered and elevated. Each time we do so we are affirming and strengthening the unity of the worlds." - Rabbi Sholom Brodt (This is how Reb Shlomo functioned, reaching out to EVERYONE.)
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Go to http://rebshlomo.org/ to read REB SHLOMO'S TORAHS and STORIES.
Read Shlomo's CHANUKAH teachings.

Excerpt from my 4 page story in "KOL CHEVRE":

My short Shabbat Story with Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l. by Joy Krauthammer
When I would slowly walk to shul on Shabbat in Jerusalem with Reb Shlomo, zt'l, I mamash deeply felt that Shlomo was pulling in "all four corners of the world" just like tzitsit on a tallit. At each intersection, people increasing in number came to Shlomo to greet him and ask for his bruchot / prayers and mitzvot, which he later delivered. I told Shlomo he was the "Pied Piper." He was cute and said that I was "the Pied" and he was "the Piper". I know that Shlomo's kavenah / intention of "uniting the worlds" was met when the chasidim with black hats and peyis / side curls would recognize and greet me at other times, when Shlomo was not present.

Years ago, I once heard Malavah Malkah dancers in Berkeley call out loud, "Shlomo is not even here and we continue to dance." We dance in Shlomo's zechut / merit. May we be blessed to dance. Reb Shlomo would share, "Our feet can take us where our minds can not go," and "Dance your way into the Book of Life."

Michael Jacobs, former Jerusalem and LA Kabbalah Teacher, author, and fine Judaic artist, now living in the desert, for years has written a weekly Torah commentary. Interesting points and gematria from a scribe's wisdom and point of view. Michaelojacobs@roadrunner.com
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Chanoch, is a Spiritual Teacher who teaches YOU how to be your own Spiritual Guide. He authors a weekly Parsha email. Telephone Conference Classes 3 times a week including direct readings from the Zohar, as well as other Spiritual Teachings. Contact:
Chanoch at chanoch_7@yeshshem.com ; Blog at ttp://www.yeshshem.wordpress.com
/; Twitter - Facebook at yeshshem; web site is http://www.yeshshem.com/
I saw the interesting website, but I have not yet studied with Chanoch's Parshas or phone classes.
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I love DAILY DOSE from http://www.chabad.org/ . You too can subscribe to this daily teaching of the Rebbe, revised by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman.
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For wonderful writings by The Jewish Woman, also read:http://www.thejewishwoman.org/ edited by Sara Esther Crispe, on Chabad's web site. They include my writings. I've been a Chabadnic ever since I met The Rebbe, zt'l, in 1970, and he gave me a dollar.
I was blessed to be able to davven for the first time at The Lubavitch Rebbe's kever in Queens, N.Y. I made prayers for all our chevra. This was a mamash, deeply moving experience for me. I gave tzadakah at the grave site and followed the instructions for honoring The Rebbe.
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"Morning I Will See You: Awakening to the Beauty of the Day", is a recent CD by Rabbi Shawn Zevit.
"Blessings when we live in our power. Blessings when we live in holiness."
Full review by Joy in Sept. Elul issue of Joyous Chai Lights. See archives.SZevit@comcast.net http://www.rabbizevit.com/ www.cdbaby.com/zevit

Dear Chevre,
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"Chai Lights" was birthed in the "Jewish Calendar Magazine" in 1983 and my spiritual ARTS monthly column lived there in hard copy for about a dozen years. I then reclaimed it privately, the way I began it and Kid Kulture in 1980.
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A benefit to JOYous-CHAI-LIGHTS-blogspot format vs. my e-mailing form for the past years, is that I can and do add to it during the month, so if YOU want something included, feel free to let me know. In blog form, the benefit is that you can also access this info at any time.

You are welcome to "COMMENT" at end of this long POST or else write directly to me. You have my personal address. I always love reading what YOU write. (My other BLOGS (PR memos mostly, not diaries) are visible by clicking above, MY PROFILE.)
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Feel free to use any of the info in CHAI LIGHTS for your shul's website info. Let's JOYOUSLY bring "Community into Unity."
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I am happy to share with you my JOYous CHAI LIGHTS of upcoming Shabbats, Chagim/holidays, mostly LA Jewish RENEWAL and post-denominational spiritual events, classes & the ARTS, plus...I only write about the events that I know and love. Not the shuls I used to go to, nor the ones I haven't yet gone to, nor the ones I intentionally don't go to. Thus mine is a partial listing and not 'impartial'. They are where I love to be, and invite you to join me there in joy along the Four Worlds path to The Tree of Life.
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In the merit / zechus and light of Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l, I love helping to make our universe a smaller world, one with more spiritual consciousness, connection, and chesed / lovingkindness. With spiritual Guidance, I make instinctual connections for people. I believe that music helps to cross boundaries and brings us closer to the Holy One, so I emphasize here those events, as well as learning and prayer opportunities. Please see my Reb Shlomo story.
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Monthly, I write this large mailing, my gift to Chevra, from my Porter Ranch kitchen table looking East to Jerusalem, and no one but I proof it. I hand click each recipient, no lists. UNSUBSCRIBE-- Let me know. Information is subject to change. Please call event to confirm specific locations, times, fees and accessibility. If you see an error that would be continued, please let me know.
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PLEASE FORWARD JOYous CHAI LIGHTS TO YOUR FRIENDS & FAMILY so they, too, can enjoy with you, spiritual Renewal Judaism. Most of what I include here is NOT included in other local media. This is the only Jewish spiritual Renewal oriented LA events list. Click on underlined LINKS below for full updated stories of events & some photos. I love it when at an event I meet someone and they tell me they are present because a friend had forwarded CHAI LIGHTS to them. People stop and tell me they have joined shuls because of these invites. Amayn.
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Having Publisher's privilege, I invite you to my many activities, and share them here. You can even hire me to play passionate percussion and Miriyahm HaNeviah for Rosh Chodeshes, Women's Passover Seders, Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l memorial concerts or other spiritual events. I play for shuls, farbrengens and events throughout LA.
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Contact me if you want to invite KINDRED SPIRITS, my 18 member percussion ensemble of REMO friends to join you, or if you want OPEN TO WONDER, my divine band, http://www.opentowonderband.blogspot.com/ for your spiritual services.

AriellaShira Lewis and I loved offering SIMCHAT CHOCHMAH at ALEPH's week-long KALLAH retreat in Ohio and local shuls and Jewish Federation. Call me to book a workshop.

In addition, I, Joy, continue to offer Kabbalistic Four World workshops on "Joy." See lists. ABOUT ME: CLICK: VIEW MY COMPLETE PROFILE for all sites.

"Joy breaks through all barriers." The Rebbe.

When I am drumming, connecting to the Source of All BlesSings, I love seeing YOUR smiling hearts radiating from Hashem and illuminating and reflecting Divine light, and then mine drums in joy with yours. I always love hearing from YOU and hearing about your spiritual path.
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Please ask The Compassionate One for healing blessings / MiSheberachfor all those you love, for healing comfort in Four Worlds of spirit, mind, body and soul. Remember to try to use the Hebrew name both of the one in need, along with the mother's Hebrew name. Torah.org offers MiSheberach lists you can use and you can pray for those listed. http://torah.org/services/cholim

Another source I like for Jewish prayer community is, "Daven For Me And I'll Daven For You". info@davenforme.org http://www.davenforme.org/ 718-437-8812. No charge.
.BlesSings of love, Shabbat shalom, prosperity, health and joy (of course). See you in shul,Joy Krauthammer

"For life, for health, for hope, for beautiful bountiful blessing--all praise to the Source, to the Source of Being." and the words repeat in Hebrew, "Baruch Atah Yah, M'kor nefest kol chai", in the first cut. Ahhh. (Text by Rabbi Elyse Frishman)

How comforting and healing it is to hear the words and sounds of Craig's new CD, "Holy Ground". The songs transform me. The CD is gentle, upbeat, uplifting and inspirational. I fill with joy, quenching all the spaces of my soul that can receive beauty of song, a fabric of light, color and joy. Tears were released where I needed to be touched. My body sways in quiet meditation and moves in ecstasy to Craig's sincere songs. (Craig, hear my drummer hands rolling with you in "V'Shamru" and "Aleynu".) Each of the dozen songs are satisfying to me to listen to over and over again, for days.

There is a wonderful inner booklet telling the story of the songs that Craig sings.

I know that Craig's actions/his mitzvot are holy, and he, too, walks on Holy Ground, and for that, I am grateful. The title song is sweet. I love it that every word is understandable.

Craig's 15 musicians and seven vocalists accompanying him are the very best, some who play at his One Shabbat Mornings, like percussionist Jeff Stern who went to Russia with Reb Shlomo, zt'l, and bass player, Dale Schatz, who played for my daughter's wedding, and pianist, Chris Hart, whom I have been blessed to accompany at Valley Beth Shalom.

I am sorry that my own gigs conflict with Craig's LA shul's Shabbat services, so that I am rarely present at his services, which I love. I have been blessed for the last 25 years to be aware of Craig's gifts to our community.

I recall when an Ojai potter, z'l, lovingly showed me his international award winning ceramic pot and told me that his hand-thrown pot won the first place prize because it was "an honest pot." I feel this way about Craig's music. He sings the way he speaks, in sharing truth and soul.

"Love your G*d with all your might..." Craig sings. I feel honest G*d connection when I listen to Craig Taubman sing, and that is a blesSing.
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Singing "Shalom, Let There Be Peace", it feels as if Shlomo's, zt'l, voice is a crystal clear vibrant stream coming from Heaven on high, and down to us, embracing us to receive Shlomo's message. We can climb the ladder of his song with him, with every precious word.

"Shlomo Carlebach, Songs of Peace", is the newest CD of 1973 previously unreleased recorded performances. Here are several of Reb Shlomo's 5,000 composed songs, released by Sojourn Records, daughter, Neshama, and the Estate for Shlomo's 15th yahrzeit, 16 Cheshvan. www.sojournrecords.com/artistpage/shlomo_carlebach.

The vibrations of Reb Shlomo's voice penetrate the insides of my insides, my soul. The voice from 35 years ago; So strong, so powerful, so filled with the deepest desire for the whole world to hear his holy song, for their neshamas to be in Torah in the highest place.

Listening over and over again to the "Holy Beggar", grips me as I hear that "The Holy Beggar has no hands to take, only hands to give, no feet to run away, only feet to run to, to bring peace ..." "... He had no speech; lips were so holy, he could only sing and tell holy words." "Teach me Holy Beggar... You have to wait. The whole wide world is waiting to sing a song of Shabbos."

My heart melts, merges with song and Yerushalayim as all my cells know to play music with Shlomo, accompanying him and his holy musicians. As always, Shlomo's musicians are so fine on this new CD. (How I miss playing with him...)

The songs are familiar to Shlomo's chevre, i.e. "Yisrael B'Tach BaShem." Shlomo's voice is younger, reaching higher, notes extended on angel's wings. Heavenly whistling is heard by Shlomo in "Bo'l v'shalom." "L'Cha Dodi" was never more sweetly heard. And again in "V'Techezena", birds must be reaching to listen. Holy Chevre is present and we hear their clapping as Shlomo shares his wisdom, his connection to G*d. Can you hear it? Shlomo says, "Join me," in "Oseh Shalom." Feel deeply the chanted ending "Shalom" which only sounded better in person.

We remember our beloved Reb Shlomo Carlebach for his song, music, dance, teachings, Torah, love, mitzvot, connection to sages, old country, and his reaching out, mamash / truly to bring back to Judaism all the gevaldt souls; all the souls lost in the Shoah. "The light of G*d is for the whole world." I remember feeling this Light as I stood next to Shlomo and the hundreds of people at every concert and teaching, brought closer to G*d.
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